Ten years ago, Dr. Ahmad Al Maradni boarded a one-way flight from Syria to the United States. “I had come to the realization that leaving home was a sacrifice I would need to make in order to grow into the type of physician I desired to be," he says. "I have chosen endocrinology because it offers the opportunity to be an excellent researcher, clinician, and educator simultaneously. To me, there is no other area of medicine that combines these three skills in such a perfect way. I have deep curiosity about the immunology, pathophysiology, and preventive approaches for type 1 and 2 diabetes." His research at Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, MA, focused mainly on medical therapies for type 2 diabetes and several interventional investigations of nutritional and medical weight-loss approaches. He is now pursuing his dream as a first-year fellow at University of Arizona in Phoenix and on the way to become an adult endocrinologist.
What is your favorite Endocrine Society memory?
My first virtual annual meeting as an endocrinology fellow. I look forward to participating in Endo 2021 meeting which will be a great opportunity to meet and learn with others. I am glad that at least we still can meet virtually these days.
What advice would you give for someone looking to become more involved in the Endocrine Society?
I would advise that becoming a member of Endocrine Society is win-win situation. Members will get latest and up to date information about recently approved medications and published studies in the field of endocrinology. Actively engaging with available resources will certainly flourish the path to improve research, medical practices, patients, communities, and careers.
How has the Endocrine Society supported your professional development/career journey?
Dedicating a time to read and navigate through Endocrine Society website and emails that incudes recent updates has improved my medical knowledge, kept me ahead, up to date in the field.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy fitness and bodybuilding, my passion toward sport has shaped me to become an international certified personal trainer from IFBB. Also, I am an avid hiker and runner who has a passion for nature and animals.
If you could ask your peers in Endocrinology one question, what would it be?
I would ask about ideas to improve teaching and patient compliance.